Taoiseach Leo Varadkar confirmed that the Irish Government is investigating reports that a Russian drone destroyed in Ukraine had a part stamped with “Made in Ireland”. The shocking revelation came to light during Mr Varadkar’s surprise visit to Kyiv, where he held talks with President Volodymyr Zelensky.
The discovery was made after a Ukrainian journalist questioned Mr Varadkar about a component from a Shahed drone, made in Iran, which was shot down over Mykolaiv in recent days. The part in question, a carburettor used in spark-ignition engines, bore the label “Made by Tillotson”, an American company with a factory in Tralee, Co Kerry.
The Irish Taoiseach expressed concern over the matter, stating that the Government takes it seriously. However, he also clarified that they do not believe any Irish companies have evaded sanctions. Nevertheless, there are concerns about third parties potentially bypassing restrictions.
It remains uncertain whether the “Made in Ireland” stamped component was genuinely produced in Ireland. The recovered drone’s picture was shared on Twitter by Andriy Yermak, the head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, who highlighted that other parts were made in Western and Asian countries.
Former minister for foreign affairs Charlie Flanagan labelled it “a matter of some concern”. Under EU sanctions against Russia, there is a ban on the sale, supply, or export of drone engines and electronic components that may contribute to Moscow’s military activities.
The Irish Department of Enterprise, Trade, and Employment is actively investigating the matter. A spokesperson stated that Ireland implements a robust export control policy, adhering to relevant EU and international standards. Any breach of export controls is treated seriously.
The Department is working in collaboration with Conflict Armament Research, an EU-funded organisation, to ensure that Irish components do not end up in conflict zones around the world, whether intentionally or unintentionally. The investigation continues as authorities strive to uncover the origins and implications of the “Made in Ireland” component on the Russian drone.
